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Sherief

As an undergraduate at NJIT (the New Jersey Institute of Technology), I enrolled in field classes that involved traveling to different sites, taking notes and collecting data to prepare field reports. It was during that time I discovered my fondness for this type of work.

During one summer in college, I interned at a small environmental consulting firm where I learned about various project roles and applied industry skills. Later, I worked in a geophysics lab where I monitored solute leaching in soils using geo-electrical methods. Upon graduating with my bachelor’s degree in environmental science and a minor in geology, I was hired by AECOM to assist with remedial investigation efforts at sites in New Jersey.

At AECOM my role quickly grew, as did my knowledge of different treatment methods, primarily in-situ and ex-situ chemical treatments that have applications for soil remediation and are used extensively at some of our major sites. In central New Jersey, we conducted well injections using a powerful oxidizing solution to mitigate the impacts of chlorinated solvents to the subsurface. This entailed treating groundwater as well as monitoring site wells and collecting samples throughout the duration of the pilot study. Witnessing a site’s progression from start to finish is one of the most satisfying parts of my job.

In my two years with AECOM, I’ve found that employee growth and diversification are encouraged and supported. I’ve pursued certifications that have given me the opportunity to take on different projects and I look forward to acquiring many more. From soil investigations to property inspections, I consider myself lucky to have had such a variety of opportunities — to wear many “hats” during my time with the company so far.

My current role is focused more on the report writing side of the business. Often, reports are the end-product of the project, and it’s important to ensure the highest degree of quality and completeness so our clients and government agencies feel confident with the job we’ve done.

One of the best parts of my experience is having a solid idea of what my career will look like down the line given the nature of work I’ve been able to do. I strive to learn something new every day and look forward to my continued development, both personally and professionally.

In my two years with AECOM, I’ve found that employee growth and diversification are encouraged and supported.